Motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

0001This invention relates to an architectural covering. More specifically, and without limitation, this invention relates to a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

0002Architectural coverings, such as curtains, shades, draperies and the like are frequently used to provide privacy and to limit the amount of light that is permitted to pass through a window and into a room or building. There are countless types, forms and designs of architectural coverings known in the art. The term architectural covering is used to describe any and all of these types, forms and designs including blinds, shades, draperies, and the like.

0003One form of architectural covering of particular interest in this application is a drape or drapery product. Common components of draperies include a support rod connected to brackets positioned above or adjacent to a window or door. In one arrangement of a drapery product, the support rod rotates and drives the shade material across the length of the support rod. This arrangement is more fully described in Applicant's related provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/702,093 filed on Sep. 17, 2012 entitled Rotatable Drive Element For Moving A Window Covering, which was converted into a utility patent having patent application Ser. No. 14/029,210 filed on Sep. 16, 2013 with the same title as well as being filed as a PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US2013/060205 filed on Sep. 17, 2013 with the same title, which are all fully incorporated by reference herein, including any related applications; and Applicant's related patent Application Ser. No. 61/810,949 filed on Apr. 11, 2013 entitled Rotatable Drive Element For Moving A Window Covering Including A Flexible Guide Arm And A Pointed Tooth Arrangement which is also fully incorporated by reference herein, including any related applications; and Applicant's related provisional patent Application Ser. No. 61/856,123 filed on Jul. 19, 2013 entitled Motorized Grommet Drapery Apparatus, System And Method Of Use which is also fully incorporated by reference herein, including any related applications; and Applicant's related provisional patent Application Ser. No. 61/856,143 filed on Jul. 19, 2013 entitled Motorized Drapery Apparatus With Batteries Positioned In The Brackets which is also fully incorporated by reference herein, including any related applications; and Applicant's related provisional patent Application Ser. No. 61/901,985 filed on Nov. 8, 2013 entitled Method And Apparatus For Linked Horizontal Drapery Panels Having Varying Characteristics To Be Moved Independently By A Common Drive System which is also fully incorporated by reference herein, including any related applications.

0004In these related patent applications, the support rod, also referred to as the rotatable drive element, rotates in place. While the rotation of the rotatable drive element is effective for driving the shade material across the length of the rotatable drive element to open and close the architectural covering, this rotation produces its own problems. Namely, connecting the rotatable drive element to brackets produces challenges because the rotatable drive element can wear, rattle, move around and otherwise be difficult to connect to and hold in place. This arrangement also produces significant challenges when attempting to connect other members or devices to the rotatable drive element, such as finials, rotatable drive element extensions, or additional rotatable drive elements to extend the length of the architectural covering.

0005In addition to these problems, other problems exist in connecting motors to the rotatable drive element as motors positioned within the rotatable drive element present their own problems. Further problems exist in how to power architectural coverings having a rotatable drive element.

0006Thus it is a primary object of the invention to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that improves upon the state of the art.

0007Another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that is easy to use.

0008Yet another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that is efficient.

0009Another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that is simple in design.

0010Yet another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that is inexpensive.

0011Another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that has a minimum number of parts.

0012Yet another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that has an intuitive design.

0013Another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that holds a rotatable drive element in place while allowing it to rotate.

0014Yet another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that allows for connection of multiple rotatable drive elements.

0015Another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that provides for connection of a battery assembly external of the rotatable drive element.

0016Yet another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that allows for connection of multiple motor housings so as to provide additional torque for rotation.

0017Another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that allows for connection of a motor housing that is external to the rotatable drive element.

0018Yet another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that allows for connection of an external power supply through the bracket.

0019Another object of the invention is to provide a motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use that provides for housing electronic components to control the system in a portion of the bracket.

0020These and other objects, features, or advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the specification and claims.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

0021An architectural covering is presented having a rotatable drive element having a guide structure and a plurality of idler attachment elements and a drive element positioned over the rotatable drive element. The rotatable drive element is connected to a wall, ceiling or other structure by brackets. In one arrangement a drive shaft having at least one bearing is then attached to the brackets such that the rotatable drive elements rotate upon the bearings. This arrangement provides an efficient, simple and convenient manner of attaching a rotatable drive element to brackets for mounting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0022<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a perspective view of an architectural covering having two rotatable drive elements having a helical guide structure therein; the rotatable drive elements are connected at their inward ends by a center coupler; the rotatable drive elements are connected to a bracket at their outward ends, a motor housing with a finial is connected to one end of the rotatable drive element with a battery assembly electrically connected to the bracket adjacent the motor housing which supplies power to the motor housing; a dummy rotatable drive element extension is connected to the bracket on the opposite; driver attachment elements for driving shade material open and closed are shown on the rotatable drive element.

0023<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a perspective exploded view of the elements shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>

0024<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a close-up perspective exploded view of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> showing the motor housing, bracket having a key feature and electrical contacts, a motor coupler sleeve positioned within the outward end of the rotatable drive element.

0025<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a close-up perspective exploded view of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> showing the center coupler and the ends of rotatable drive elements.

0026<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a close-up perspective view of a bracket which connects a motor housing to a rotatable drive element, the view showing the side which engages a motor housing, the view showing the key feature and the electrical contacts.

0027<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a close-up perspective view of a bracket which connects a motor housing to a rotatable drive element, the view showing the side of the bracket which engages a rotatable drive element, the view also showing the electrical socket and passageway, as well as a cavity which provides a spot for mounting and housing electronics for controlling the motor housing.

0028<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is a close up perspective exploded view of a motor housing showing a threaded surface structure, an exterior end cap, a bearing a motor coupler a motor end cap and a key feature having electrical contacts.

0029<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is side elevation cut-away view of the motor housing shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>, the view showing the motor coupler, bearing, planetary gear box, electrical motor, sensor assembly, motor controller assembly, and antenna.

0030<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is an exploded perspective view of the motor housing shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>, the view showing the motor coupler, bearing, planetary gear box, electrical motor, sensor assembly, motor controller assembly, antenna motor end cap and exterior end cap.

0031<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is side elevation cut-away view of the motor housing shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> connected to a rotatable drive element through a motor bracket, the view showing the motor coupler, bearing, planetary gear box, electrical motor, electrical plug and rotatable drive element.

0032<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is a side plan view of a diamond shaped, cross-threaded, or crisscrossed knurled pattern in the surface of a rotatable drive element.

0033<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is a perspective view of a rotatable drive element having a threaded surface and a driver attachment element showing a lower density of teeth on the interior surface of the driver element than the number of threads in the surface of the rotatable drive element.

0034<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> is a perspective view of the rotatable drive elements connected together at a center bracket, the center coupler being positioned within the bracket and the open interior of the rotatable drive element.

0035<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> is a perspective exploded view of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>.

0036<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> is a side elevation view of a drive attachment element.

0037<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> is a front elevation cut-away view of the drive attachment element of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> positioned over rotatable drive element.

0038<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> is a perspective view of the drive attachment element of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>.

0039<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref> is a front elevation view of another embodiment of a drive attachment element.

0040<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref> is a front elevation cut-away view of the drive attachment element of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref> positioned over rotatable drive element.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

0041In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that mechanical, procedural, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present inventions. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

0042As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top, bottom, front, back, end and sides are referenced according to the views presented. It should be understood, however, that the terms are used only for purposes of description, and are not intended to be used as limitations. Accordingly, orientation of an object or a combination of objects may change without departing from the scope of the invention.

0043As used herein, the invention is shown and described as being used in association with an architectural covering however the invention is not so limiting. Instead, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the system and method presented herein can be applied to any mechanical device, without limitation. The system and method is merely shown and described as being used in association with an architectural covering for ease of description and as one of countless examples.

0044As used herein, the term architectural covering refers to any covering such as a blind, drapery, roller shade, venetian blind, drapery or the like, used especially in association with windows. This term is in no way meant to be limiting. Instead, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the system and method presented herein can be applied to any architectural covering, without limitation.

0045With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, an architectural covering <b>10</b> is presented. Architectural covering <b>10</b> is formed of any size, shape and design. As one example, as is shown, architectural covering <b>10</b> includes a first rotatable drive element <b>12</b> connected to a second rotatable drive element <b>13</b>. The first and second rotatable drive elements <b>12</b>, <b>13</b> are any form of a rotating member such as a rod, tube, threaded bar, or the like. In one arrangement, rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> and <b>13</b> are practically identical if not identical and therefore for simplicity reference to one shall be reference to the other, unless specified otherwise. In one arrangement, rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is an elongated hollow tube, having a helical guide structure <b>14</b> positioned in its surface, as is described in further detail in Applicant's related Application Ser. No. 61/702,093 filed on Sep. 17, 2012 entitled Rotatable Drive Element For Moving A Window Covering, which is fully incorporated by reference herein, including any related applications; and Applicant's related patent Application Ser. No. 61/810,949 filed on Apr. 11, 2013 entitled Rotatable Drive Element For Moving A Window Covering Including A Flexible Guide Arm And A Pointed Tooth Arrangement which is also fully incorporated by reference herein, including any related applications. The helical guide structure <b>14</b> can be a left-hand guide structure, a right-hand guide structure, or both, or a plurality or combination of left-hand guide structures and/or right-hand guide structures. Guide structure <b>14</b> can either be grooves, indentations, protrusions, threads or any other feature or the like. Guide structure <b>14</b> can either ground or machined into the surface or rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, knurled into the surface of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> (as is described further herein), cast or formed into the surface of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, or created by any other means or methods known in the art.

0046Wall brackets <b>16</b> support rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. Wall brackets <b>16</b> are any form of a connecting device which supports and connects rotatable drive element <b>12</b> to any structural element such as a wall adjacent a window, a ceiling, a frame structure or the like. As one example, in the arrangement shown, rotatable drive element <b>12</b> connects on one side to wall bracket <b>16</b> and a motor housing <b>18</b> connects on the opposite side.

0047In the arrangement shown, wall brackets <b>16</b> include a mounting plate <b>20</b> which connects to the wall, an extension arm <b>22</b>, which extends between mounting plate <b>20</b> and a mounting member <b>24</b>. Mounting member <b>24</b> is formed of any suitable size and shape and serves to connect to rotatable drive element <b>12</b> while allowing for functional movement, such as rotation, of the necessary parts. In one arrangement, as is shown, mounting member <b>24</b> is a generally circular collar which is sized and shaped to receive rotatable drive element <b>12</b> therein as is described further herein.

0048Mounting member <b>24</b> has an exterior side <b>26</b> and an interior side <b>28</b>. Rotatable drive element <b>12</b> connects to the interior side <b>28</b> and motor housing <b>18</b> connects to the exterior side <b>28</b>. A collar <b>30</b> extends inwardly from the mounting member <b>24</b> thereby separating the interior side <b>28</b> from the exterior side <b>26</b>. In the arrangement shown, collar <b>30</b> has a flat and flush interior side <b>32</b> which extends into the open interior of mounting member <b>24</b> perpendicularly to the interior surface of mounting member <b>24</b>. The exterior side of collar <b>30</b> has a protrusion <b>34</b> that extends outwardly from collar <b>30</b> in perpendicular alignment to collar <b>30</b> and in parallel spaced alignment to the interior surface of mounting member <b>24</b> thereby forming channel <b>36</b> between the interior surface of mounting member <b>24</b> and the exterior surface of protrusion <b>34</b>. A step <b>38</b> is positioned between protrusion <b>34</b> and the end <b>40</b> of collar <b>30</b> which defines a circular interior through hole. Step <b>38</b> and channel <b>36</b> serve to engage and hold motor housing <b>18</b> while allowing portions of the motor housing <b>18</b> to extend through the open end <b>40</b> of collar <b>30</b> to engage and rotate rotatable drive element <b>12</b>.

0049As is shown, the features of the interior side <b>32</b> of mounting member <b>24</b> are generally circular in shape so as to allow rotation of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. In contrast, key-features <b>42</b> are positioned in the exterior side <b>26</b> of mounting member <b>24</b>. Key-features <b>42</b> are any aberration, deviation, irregularity, anomaly in the round features in the exterior side <b>26</b> of mounting member <b>24</b>. Key-features <b>42</b> breakup the circular shape of the features in the exterior side <b>26</b> of mounting member <b>24</b> and thereby serve to prevent rotation of motor housing <b>18</b> when connected to bracket <b>16</b>. In the arrangement shown, key-features <b>42</b> include a pair of semi-circular recesses in the mounting member <b>24</b> that extend all the way to the collar <b>30</b>. A divider <b>46</b> extends partially between the two recesses <b>44</b> and provides separation thereto. Divider <b>46</b> is positioned in alignment with the center of extension arm <b>22</b> for added strength and ease of alignment.

0050Electrical contacts <b>48</b> are positioned in the key-features <b>32</b> at approximately the center of each recess <b>44</b> and extend outwardly from the exterior surface of collar <b>30</b> within channel <b>36</b>. In the arrangement shown, electrical contacts <b>48</b> are circular spring loaded conductive plungers, however any other form of an electrical contact is hereby contemplated for use. Electrical contacts <b>48</b> are electrically connected to a conduit <b>50</b> which extends through a passageway <b>54</b> in extension arm <b>22</b> of bracket <b>16</b> and through a passageway <b>56</b> in mounting plate <b>20</b>. Passageway <b>56</b> in mounting plate <b>20</b> is to the side of and intentionally separated from upper through hole <b>58</b> and lower through hole <b>60</b> so as to prevent conduit <b>50</b> from being damaged when mounting bracket <b>16</b>. Through holes <b>58</b>, <b>60</b> receive fasteners <b>62</b> (not shown), such as conventional screws which are used to attach brackets <b>16</b> to a wall, ceiling or other mounting structure. In the arrangement shown, the lower through hole <b>60</b> is positioned approximately in the lateral middle of mounting plate <b>20</b> whereas the upper through hole <b>58</b> is positioned laterally to one side of the mounting plate <b>20</b>. This offset provides advantages during mounting, namely, a fastener <b>62</b> can be inserted in the bottom through hole <b>60</b> and then the bracket <b>16</b> can be rotated on the lower fastener <b>62</b> into place followed by a fastener <b>62</b> into the upper through hole <b>58</b> to complete installation.

0051The lower end of conduit <b>50</b> is connected to a socket assembly <b>64</b>. Socket assembly <b>64</b> is any form of an electrical connector such as a USB port, a two-conductor socket, a three conductor socket, a four conductor socket, a five conductor socket, a six conductor socket, a phone jack, an Ethernet socket, or any other standard or non-standard socket used to connect conduit <b>50</b> to any other device or object electrically.

0052A components recess <b>66</b> is positioned in mounting plate <b>20</b> which is sized and shaped to receive a motor controller assembly <b>68</b>, which is described further herein. Components recess <b>66</b> is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. As one example, in the arrangement shown, components recess <b>66</b> is positioned between the sidewalls <b>67</b> and front wall <b>69</b> of mounting plate <b>20</b> and positioned adjacent to the through holes <b>58</b>, <b>60</b>.

0053Motor Housing:

0054Motor housing <b>18</b> is connected adjacent the exterior end of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. Motor housing <b>18</b> is connected to the exterior side <b>26</b> of mounting member <b>24</b> of bracket <b>16</b>. Motor housing <b>18</b> is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, motor housing <b>18</b> is formed of a hollow tube <b>70</b> which is formed as an extension of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> and with approximately the same exterior size, shape, diameter and appearance of the rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, as well as continuous extension of guide structure <b>14</b> therein. In this arrangement, when motor housing <b>18</b> is connected to the end of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, the length of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is relatively seamlessly extended as is the length of guide structure <b>14</b>. In one arrangement, as is shown, rotatable drive element <b>12</b> connects to the interior side <b>28</b> of mounting member <b>24</b>. In this arrangement, mounting member <b>24</b> hides or covers the seam between rotatable drive element <b>12</b> and motor housing <b>18</b>. In this arrangement, the motor housing <b>18</b> remains stationary as rotatable drive element <b>12</b> rotates, as is further described herein.

0055Motor housing <b>18</b> has an exterior end <b>72</b> and an interior end <b>74</b>. Positioned within the open interior compartment of hollow tube <b>70</b> between interior end <b>74</b> and exterior end <b>74</b> is a motor <b>76</b>. Motor <b>76</b> is any form of a motor that converts electrical energy to mechanical energy and provides rotation and torque. In the arrangement shown, motor <b>76</b> is connected to a transmission <b>78</b>. Transmission <b>78</b> is any form of a device that transmits rotation of motor <b>76</b> and gears it such as a gear box, a planetary gear box or the like. Transmission <b>78</b> transmits the rotation of motor <b>76</b> and converts into the desirable speed useful for the application. The transmission <b>78</b> helps to maximize the torque produced by the motor <b>76</b> while maximizing battery life by reducing or minimizing power draw.

0056Transmission <b>78</b> is connected to a drive shaft <b>80</b> which extends outwardly from the interior end <b>74</b> of motor housing <b>18</b>. Drive shaft <b>80</b> extends through motor end cap <b>82</b> which is connected to the interior end <b>74</b> of hollow tube <b>70</b>.

0057Motor end cap <b>82</b> has a generally circular external ring <b>84</b> having an interior edge <b>86</b> and an exterior edge <b>88</b>. Interior edge <b>86</b> connects to hollow tube <b>70</b> whereas the exterior edge <b>88</b> connects to mounting member <b>24</b> of bracket <b>16</b>. A collar <b>90</b> extends inwardly from the ring <b>84</b> thereby separating the interior side <b>86</b> from the exterior side <b>88</b> and provides a mounting surface for mounting motor end cap <b>82</b> to the other components of motor housing <b>18</b>. An opening <b>92</b> positioned in the collar <b>90</b> allows for the drive shaft <b>80</b> of transmission <b>78</b> to extend from the interior side <b>86</b> of motor end cap <b>82</b> to the exterior side <b>88</b> of motor end cap <b>82</b>.

0058Key-features <b>94</b> are positioned in the exterior surface of motor end cap <b>82</b>. Key-features <b>94</b> are any aberration, deviation, irregularity, anomaly in the generally round exterior surface of ring <b>84</b> of motor end cap <b>82</b>. Key-features <b>94</b> breakup the circular shape of the motor end cap <b>82</b> and thereby serve to prevent rotation of motor housing <b>18</b> when connected to bracket <b>16</b>. In the arrangement shown, key-features <b>94</b> include a pair of semi-circular protrusions that connect to one another. Key-features <b>94</b> extend from the exterior edge <b>88</b> of ring <b>84</b> to the collar <b>90</b> of motor end cap <b>82</b>. A divider <b>96</b> extends partially between the two semi-circular protrusions and provides separation thereto. Divider <b>96</b> is positioned in alignment with the center of extension arm <b>22</b> for added strength and ease of alignment.

0059Electrical contacts <b>98</b> are positioned in the key-features <b>94</b> at approximately the center of each semi-circular protrusion, on the interior side of ring <b>84</b>. Electrical contacts <b>98</b> extend outwardly from the exterior surface <b>88</b> of collar <b>90</b>, Electrical contacts <b>98</b> are connected to electrical connectors <b>99</b> which extend through the motor end cap <b>82</b> and transmit the power received by electrical contacts <b>98</b> to the electrical components contained within motor housing <b>18</b>. In the arrangement shown, electrical contacts <b>98</b> are circular spring loaded conductive plungers, however any other form of an electrical contact is hereby contemplated. Electrical contacts <b>98</b> are electrically connected to the motor <b>76</b> and motor controller assembly <b>68</b> as is described herein.

0060In the arrangement shown, a pair of fasteners <b>100</b> extend through the collar <b>90</b> and connect to the transmission <b>78</b>, or any other component of the motor housing <b>18</b>, thereby locking the two components together. A bearing <b>102</b> and motor coupler <b>104</b> is positioned over the drive shaft <b>80</b> held in place by a locking arrangement between motor coupler <b>104</b> connects and drive shaft <b>80</b>. Motor coupler <b>104</b> has a rounded or angled nose <b>106</b> which tapers outwardly as it extends towards motor housing <b>18</b>. The exterior periphery of motor coupler <b>104</b> adjacent motor housing <b>18</b> is formed in the shape of gears <b>108</b> or a gear tooth arrangement. That is, the external surface of motor coupler <b>104</b> near its base where motor coupler <b>104</b> connects to the motor housing <b>18</b>. The gears <b>108</b> mesh with gears in or attached to the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> and serve to rotate rotatable drive element <b>12</b> when motor <b>76</b> and/or transmission <b>78</b> is rotated. The rounded or angled nose <b>106</b> eases alignment and insertion of the motor coupler <b>104</b> through bracket <b>16</b> and into the rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. A shoulder <b>110</b> is positioned towards the motor housing <b>18</b> from gears <b>108</b> and nose <b>106</b> and extends outwardly past gears <b>108</b>. Shoulder <b>110</b> serves as a stop for bearing <b>102</b> which is positioned around body <b>112</b> and held in place by clip <b>114</b>.

0061In this arrangement, as motor <b>76</b> rotates, the drive shaft <b>80</b> of transmission <b>78</b> rotates which rotates motor coupler <b>104</b> which rotates bearing <b>102</b> within ring <b>84</b> of motor end cap <b>82</b>.

0062The exterior end <b>72</b> of motor <b>76</b> is connected to a motor controller <b>68</b> (or in an alternative arrangement, the motor controller <b>68</b>, or a portion of motor controller <b>68</b> is positioned in or connected to first bracket <b>16</b>). Motor controller <b>68</b> includes all the components to control motor <b>76</b> and to control operation of the architectural covering <b>10</b>. Motor controller <b>68</b> is any device which controls the operation of motor <b>76</b>. In one arrangement, motor controller <b>68</b> is an electrical circuit board or PC board <b>116</b> which is electrically connected to a microprocessor <b>118</b> connected to memory <b>120</b>, a receiver or transceiver <b>122</b> and an antenna <b>124</b>. Microprocessor <b>118</b> is any programmable device that accepts analog or digital signals or data as input, processes it according to instructions stored in its memory <b>120</b>, and provides results as output. Microprocessor <b>118</b> receives signals from receiver or transceiver <b>122</b> and processes them according to its instructions stored in its memory <b>120</b> and then controls motor <b>76</b> based on these signals. Memory <b>120</b> is any form of electronic memory such as a hard drive, flash, ram or the like. Antenna <b>124</b> is any electronic device which converts electric power into electromagnetic signals or electromagnetic waves, which are commonly known as radio waves or RF (radio frequency) (hereinafter collectively referred to as “electromagnetic signals” without limitation). Antenna <b>124</b> can transmit and/or receive these electromagnetic signals. In one arrangement these electromagnetic signals are transmitted via AM or FM RF communication, while any other range of RF is hereby contemplated such as 433 MHz or 908 MHz. In the arrangement shown, a meandering monopole antenna or fractal antenna is used; however any other form of an antenna is hereby contemplated. Antenna <b>124</b> is positioned adjacent the exterior end <b>72</b> of motor housing <b>18</b> so as to be in the best position to receive electromagnetic signals without interference. In the arrangement shown, antenna <b>124</b> is positioned just inside of end cap <b>126</b>. In an alternative arrangement, antenna <b>124</b> is incorporated within end cap <b>126</b>. In another arrangement end cap <b>126</b> is replaced with a decorative finial; or alternatively a decorative finial is connected to end cap <b>126</b>.

0063To detect rotation and track the position of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, a sensor assembly <b>128</b> is connected to motor housing <b>18</b>. Sensor assembly <b>128</b> is any form of a device which senses the rotation or position of architectural covering <b>10</b>, such as reed switches, mechanical encoders, magnetic encoders, or the like. In one arrangement, as is shown, sensor assembly <b>128</b> includes a magnet wheel <b>130</b> connected to a secondary motor shaft <b>132</b> extending outwardly from the exterior end <b>72</b> of motor <b>76</b> such that when motor <b>76</b> rotates, secondary motor shaft <b>132</b> rotates, thereby rotating magnetic wheel <b>130</b>. Positioned adjacent to magnet <b>130</b> is at least one, and as is shown two, Hall Effect sensors <b>134</b> positioned opposite one another. In this arrangement, Hall Effect sensors <b>134</b> are connected to PC board <b>116</b> adjacent magnet <b>130</b> which extends into an opening in PC board <b>116</b>. This arrangement using Hall Effect Sensors <b>134</b> is more fully described in Applicant's related patent application entitled Low-Power Architectural Covering Ser. No. 61/811,650 filed on Apr. 12, 2013 which is fully incorporated by reference herein.

0064Battery Tube Assembly:

0065A battery tube assembly <b>136</b> is connected to the architectural covering <b>10</b>. Battery Tube Assembly <b>136</b> is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. As one example, in the arrangement shown, the battery tube assembly <b>136</b> includes an elongated hollow tubular member <b>138</b> which is sized and shaped to receive a stack of conventional batteries <b>140</b> therein within close and acceptable tolerances such as A, AA, B, C or D cell batteries. The lower end of battery tube assembly <b>136</b> is closed by a battery end cap <b>142</b>. The opposite, or upper end of battery tube assembly <b>136</b> is removeably and replaceably enclosed by a battery connector cap <b>144</b>. Battery connector cap <b>144</b> is removeably and replaceably connected to battery tube assembly <b>136</b> by a key-slot <b>146</b> positioned in the elongated hollow tubular member which is in locking and mating communication with a protrusion in the battery connector cap <b>144</b>. However, any other means of connecting battery connector cap <b>144</b> to elongated hollow tubular member <b>138</b> is hereby contemplated such as threads, a snap fit design, a button-lock design or the like. A transmission wire <b>146</b> which terminates in a plug <b>148</b> extends outwardly from battery connector cap <b>144</b> and transmits electricity to architectural covering <b>10</b>. Plug <b>148</b> matingly and matchingly and removeably and replaceably connects to socket assembly <b>64</b> in mounting plate <b>20</b> of bracket <b>16</b>.

0066A battery tube mounting bracket <b>150</b> is removeably and replaceably connected to the elongated hollow tubular member <b>138</b> and serves to mount and hold elongated hollow tubular member <b>138</b> therein. Battery tube mounting bracket <b>150</b> is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. As one example, in the arrangement shown, battery tube mounting bracket <b>150</b> is a generally elongated extrusion having a back wall <b>152</b> connected to its outward edges to sidewalls <b>154</b>. The space between back wall <b>152</b> and opposing sidewalls <b>154</b> is sized and shaped to frictionally and tightly, but removeably, receive hollow elongated tubular member <b>138</b>. To achieve this frictional engagement, the ends <b>156</b> sidewalls <b>154</b> angle or curve inward toward one another. In this arrangement, elongated hollow tubular member <b>138</b> can be forced within the space between sidewalls <b>154</b> and back wall <b>152</b>; and elongated hollow tubular member <b>138</b> can be forced out of the space between sidewalls <b>154</b> and back wall <b>152</b>. Elongated hollow tubular member <b>138</b> can be mounted within the vicinity of bracket <b>16</b> and motor housing <b>18</b> in either a vertical alignment (as is shown) in a perpendiculars alignment or in any other alignment by fastening battery tube mounting member <b>150</b> to the wall, ceiling or structure architectural covering <b>10</b> is mounted to. Mounting can be accomplished by passing conventional fasteners, such as screws or bolts, through the back wall <b>152</b> of battery tube mounting bracket <b>150</b>.

0067Motor Coupler Sleeve:

0068Rotatable drive element <b>12</b> connects to the motor housing <b>18</b> through connection of the motor coupler <b>104</b> to a motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b>. Motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> is an elongated hollow tubular member having an exterior surface <b>162</b> and an interior surface <b>164</b> which extend in generally parallel spaced relation to one another. The exterior surface <b>162</b> has gears or teeth therein that extend along a length of motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b>. The gears or teeth in the exterior surface <b>162</b> of motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> matingly and meshingly and removeably and replaceably engage and receive gears or teeth in the interior surface <b>166</b> of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> adjacent its open hollow end <b>168</b>. A collar <b>170</b>, or protrusion positioned in the exterior surface <b>162</b> of motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> sets the distance at which motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> can be inserted into the end <b>168</b> of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>.

0069The interior surface <b>164</b> of motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> also has gears or teeth therein that extend along a length of motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b>. The gears or teeth in the interior surface <b>164</b> of motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> matingly and meshingly and removeably and replaceably engage and receive gears <b>108</b> in the interior surface of motor copuler <b>104</b> of motor housing <b>18</b>. In this arrangement, nose <b>106</b> of motor coupler <b>104</b> is inserted through the mounting member <b>24</b> of bracket <b>16</b> and into the hollow interior of motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> such that the gears <b>108</b> of motor coupler <b>104</b> engage the teeth or gears in the interior surface <b>164</b> of motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b>. A collar <b>170</b>, or protrusion positioned in the exterior surface <b>162</b> of motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> sets the distance at which motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> can be inserted into the end <b>168</b> of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>.

0070When motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> is fully inserted within the hollow interior end <b>168</b> of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> and the motor coupler <b>104</b> is fully inserted into the hollow interior of motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b>, rotation of motor coupler <b>104</b> causes rotation of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>.

0071Center Coupler:

0072Two rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> can connect to one another in end-to-end alignment through the use of a center coupler <b>172</b>. The use of multiple center couplers <b>172</b> can be used to connect two, three, four or more rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> together without limit.

0073Center coupler <b>172</b> is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. As one example, in the arrangement shown, center coupler <b>172</b> is a pair of elongated hollow tubular members <b>174</b> (otherwise known as splines, or when combined as a single piece as a spline) connected at their inward facing edge to a bearing assembly <b>176</b>. In one arrangement, bearing assembly <b>176</b> includes an individual bearing <b>178</b> associated with each elongated hollow tubular member <b>174</b>. The exterior surface <b>180</b> of each elongated hollow tubular member <b>174</b> has gears or teeth therein that extend along a length of each elongated hollow tubular member <b>174</b>. The gears or teeth in the exterior surface <b>180</b> of elongated hollow tubular member <b>174</b> matingly and meshingly and removeably and replaceably engage and receive gears or teeth in the interior surface <b>166</b> of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> adjacent its open hollow end <b>168</b>.

0074In one arrangement, bearing assembly <b>176</b> allows for free and independent rotation of each elongated hollow tubular member <b>174</b> of center coupler <b>172</b> without affecting the other. This allows for rotation of two rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> free and independent of one another. This allows for individual control and operation of one side of architectural covering <b>10</b>, such as when two motor housings <b>18</b> are associated with a two rotatable drive element <b>12</b> architectural covering <b>10</b>, where each motor housing <b>18</b> controls only the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> it is connected to.

0075In an alternative arrangement, the two elongated hollow tubular members <b>174</b> are connected to one another, or only a single elongated hollow tubular member <b>174</b> is used. In this arrangement, the rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> do not rotate independently of one another. When two motor housings <b>18</b> are used with this arrangement, additional torque is provided by the combined force of two motors <b>76</b>.

0076In one arrangement, the elongated hollow tubular members <b>174</b> are inserted all the way into the open ends <b>168</b> of rotatable drive elements until the ends <b>168</b> engage or approximately engage the bearing assembly <b>176</b>. In this arrangement, rotatable drive elements are fully inserted over center coupler <b>172</b>. In one arrangement, when fully inserted into opposing rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> no further support is necessary. In an alternative arrangement, center coupler <b>172</b> is connected to a bracket <b>16</b>. That is, the bearing assembly <b>176</b> is held within the mounting member <b>20</b> of a bracket <b>16</b>. When bearing assembly <b>176</b> is positioned within mounting member <b>20</b> of a bracket <b>16</b>, rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> are free to rotate upon bearings <b>178</b>. In this way, additional support is provided while still allowing for necessary rotation.

0077The center coupler <b>172</b> provides for easier installation by allowing the assembly of long rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> from shorter rotatable drive elements <b>12</b>. This also reduces the cost and ease of shipping. In addition, in one arrangement, elongated hollow tubular members <b>174</b> of the center coupler <b>172</b> are formed of a material that has some bend to it. Suitable materials include plastic, rubber, composite UHMW material or the like. The benefits of this material, used in association with the hollow design of the tubular members <b>174</b> allow the center coupler <b>172</b> to provide some give to the two rotatable drive elements <b>12</b>. This give or ability to slightly bend allows for the combined rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> to be installed on walls or in applications that are not exactly perfectly straight, or allows for less-precise alignment during installation. In one arrangement, motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> is also made of the same material which allows for less-precise installation of motor housing <b>18</b> into motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b>. The use of one of these plastic or composite materials also serves to reduce noise of the architectural covering <b>10</b> during use.

0078Multiple center couplers <b>170</b> can be used to connect any number of rotatable drive elements together.

0079Rotatable Drive Element Extension:

0080In the arrangement shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, only a single motor housing <b>18</b> is connected to the two rotatable drive elements <b>12</b>, which drives the combined rotatable drive elements <b>12</b>. A rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> is connected to the exterior side <b>26</b> of the mounting member <b>14</b> of the second bracket <b>16</b>. Rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. As one example, in the arrangement shown, rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> is simply a dummy motor housing lacking the internal drive components such as the motor <b>76</b>, transmission <b>78</b> and motor controller assembly <b>68</b> and the like. In one arrangement, in all other ways, rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> has an identical appearance and design to motor housing <b>18</b> described herein. In one arrangement, rotatable drive element extensions <b>182</b> do include the hollow tube, motor end cap <b>82</b>, bearing <b>102</b> and motor coupler <b>104</b> so as to connect rotatable drive element <b>12</b> and allow rotation thereof. Motor housing <b>18</b> and rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> are secured to brackets <b>16</b> by a locking-screw <b>184</b> which extends through mounting member <b>24</b> and engages the motor end cap <b>82</b> of motor housing <b>18</b> or rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> after installation. Locking-screw <b>184</b> prevents the motor housing <b>18</b> or the rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> from falling out of bracket <b>16</b>. In this way, the end <b>168</b> of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> connected to the motor housing <b>18</b> is identified as the motor-side; whereas the end <b>168</b> of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> connected to the rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> is identified as the non-motor side.

0081Idler Attachment Elements:

0082Idler attachment elements <b>186</b> are connected to and positioned around rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. Idler attachment elements <b>186</b> are formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, idler attachment elements <b>186</b> are formed of a circular hoop member <b>188</b> which is sized and shaped to fit loosely around rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. In one arrangement, a mounting ring <b>190</b> is connected to the circular hoop member <b>188</b> for attachment of shade material <b>192</b> which hangs down from idler attachment elements <b>186</b> and drive attachment elements <b>194</b>.

0083Drive Attachment Elements:

0084Drive attachment elements <b>194</b>, like idler attachment elements <b>186</b> are connected to and positioned around rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. A single drive attachment elements <b>194</b> is positioned outside of, or at the end of the row of idler attachment elements <b>186</b>, Drive attachment element <b>194</b> is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, as is shown, drive attachment element <b>194</b> has a generally circular shape fit over and receives rotatable drive element <b>12</b> with a tooth engaged in the guide structure <b>14</b> such that when the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> rotates the drive attachment element <b>194</b> is driven along the length of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>.

0085The idler attachment elements <b>186</b> and the driver attachment elements <b>194</b> are more fully described in applicant's related patent application Ser. No. 61/810,949 entitled Rotatable Drive Element For Moving A Window Covering Including A Flexible Guide Arm And A Pointed Tooth Arrangement filed on Apr. 11, 2013 which is fully incorporated by reference herein along with any related patent applications.

0086Assembly:

0087The architectural covering <b>10</b> is assembled by connecting the opposing rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> by fully inserting the elongated hollow tubular members <b>174</b> of center coupler <b>172</b> into the open end <b>168</b> of each rotatable drive element <b>12</b> until each bearing <b>178</b> is adjacent the end <b>168</b> of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, Bearing assembly <b>176</b> may or may not be connected to a mounting member <b>24</b> of a center bracket <b>16</b> to provide additional support at the middle of combined rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. In addition, motor coupler sleeves <b>160</b> are fully inserted in the open outward ends <b>168</b> of rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> until collar <b>170</b> engages the end <b>168</b> of each rotatable drive element <b>12</b>.

0088Once the two rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> are combined and assembled, the location of the non-motor side bracket <b>16</b> of the architectural covering <b>10</b> is established by aligning the center of center coupler <b>172</b> with the center of the window or other structure architectural covering <b>10</b> is intended to cover. Alternatively, by the location of the bracket <b>16</b> of the non-motor end of the architectural covering <b>10</b> is established by measuring from the center of the desired application outwardly based on the length of the rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. Once the location of bracket <b>16</b> of the non-motor end of the architectural covering <b>10</b> is located, the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is removed and the non-motor side bracket <b>16</b> is installed with a fastener <b>62</b> inserted through the through holes <b>60</b>, <b>62</b>.

0089Once the non-motor side bracket <b>16</b> is installed, using the combined rotatable drive element <b>12</b> as a guide, the location of the motor-side bracket <b>16</b> is established. This is accomplished by inserting the end <b>168</b> of the non-motor side of drive element <b>12</b> into the recess of the interior side <b>28</b> of non-motor side bracket <b>16</b>. Next, the recess of the interior side <b>28</b> of motor-side bracket <b>16</b> is installed over the motor-side end of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. In this way the position of the motor-side bracket <b>16</b> is located and the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is removed to allow for installation of the second bracket <b>16</b>.

0090Once the location of the motor-side bracket <b>16</b> is established, a fastener <b>62</b> is inserted into the lower through hole <b>60</b> of mounting plate <b>20</b>, also known as the cantilever hole. Once the lower fastener <b>62</b> is inserted into the second bracket <b>16</b>, the bracket <b>16</b> can rotate or cantilever thereon. Next, the non-motor end <b>168</b> of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is again inserted into the non-motor side bracket <b>16</b>. Next, the motor-side end of the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is aligned with and inserted into the mounting member <b>24</b> of motor-side bracket <b>16</b> by rotating bracket <b>16</b> upon fastener <b>62</b>. Once the motor-side bracket <b>16</b> is aligned with the rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, the second fastener <b>62</b> is fastened into through hole <b>58</b> and thereby the installation of the opposing brackets <b>16</b> is complete.

0091Next the motor housing <b>18</b> and rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> are connected to the exterior sides <b>26</b> of mounting members <b>24</b> of brackets <b>16</b>. This is accomplished by aligning the key features <b>94</b> in the motor housing <b>18</b> and rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> with the key features <b>42</b> of brackets <b>16</b>. Once aligned, the motor housing <b>18</b> and rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> are forced into tight frictional engagement with brackets <b>16</b> with the key-features <b>42</b>, <b>94</b> in mating alignment and engagement with one another. In this position, the electrical contacts <b>98</b> of motor housing <b>18</b> are in electrical engagement with the electrical contacts <b>48</b> of motor-side bracket <b>16</b>. Once the motor housing <b>18</b> and rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> are fully inserted into or onto brackets <b>16</b>, locking-screw <b>184</b> is tightened thereby ensuring motor housing <b>18</b> and rotatable drive element extension <b>182</b> do not accidently separate from bracket <b>16</b>.

0092Next, battery tube assembly <b>136</b> is installed by fastening battery tube mounting bracket <b>150</b> to a wall, ceiling or other structure, preferably behind the stack of shade material adjacent the motor-side bracket <b>16</b>. Once the bracket <b>150</b> is installed, the elongated tube <b>138</b> is forced into the bracket <b>150</b> and the plug <b>148</b> is engaged into the socket assembly <b>64</b> thereby electrically connecting the power of batteries <b>140</b> to the components of motor housing <b>18</b>.

0093In Operation—Single Motor Assembly:

0094In the arrangement wherein only a single motor housing <b>18</b> is connected to the combined rotatable drive element <b>12</b> (such as is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 &amp; 2</figref>) the single motor housing <b>18</b> rotates both rotatable drive elements <b>12</b>. In this arrangement, the motor housing <b>18</b> is installed on the left bracket <b>16</b> and locked in place by the mating engagement of key-features <b>42</b>, <b>94</b> as well as the engagement of locking-screw <b>184</b>, which prevents rotation of motor housing <b>18</b> when motor <b>76</b> rotates. With motor coupler <b>104</b> inserted into the motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b>, as motor <b>76</b> rotates, the components of transmission <b>78</b> rotate which rotates drive shaft <b>80</b> which rotates motor coupler <b>104</b> on bearing <b>102</b>. This rotation is transferred through the motor coupler sleeve <b>160</b> and thereby rotates the first rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. The rotation of the first rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is transferred through center coupler <b>172</b> to rotate the second rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. The end opposite motor housing <b>18</b> of the second rotatable drive element <b>12</b> rotates freely upon bearing <b>102</b> and is supported by the right bracket <b>16</b>. In this way, a single motor housing <b>18</b> rotates dual rotatable drive elements <b>12</b>. In this arrangement, when the center coupler <b>172</b> is supported by a bracket <b>16</b>, the bearings <b>178</b> allow free rotation of the rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> within the mounting member <b>24</b> of the bracket <b>16</b>.

0095Actuation:

0096In this arrangement, motor <b>76</b> of architectural covering <b>10</b> can be actuated in any one of a plurality of methods and manners. Motorized control of architectural covering <b>10</b> can be implemented in several ways. As examples, the motor <b>76</b> can be actuated by tugging on the architectural covering <b>10</b>, by using a remote control device using RF communication, by using a voice command and a voice command module, an internet enabled application, or any other method.

0097Tugging:

0098One method of actuating the motor <b>122</b> is through tugging the architectural covering <b>10</b>. This method and system is more fully described in Applicant's related patent application entitled Low-Power Architectural Covering Ser. No. 61/811,650 filed on Apr. 12, 2013 which is fully incorporated by reference herein. A tug is defined a small manual movement of the architectural covering. This tug is sensed by a tug sensor such as an accelerometer, hall effect sensors, reed switch or the like as is more fully described in Applicant's related patent applications. When the tug sensor senses the tug, the system is woken up from a sleep state. In sleep state, power use is minimized to maximize battery life. When the system is woken up, the tug sensor senses the tug and the Microprocessor <b>118</b> deciphers the tug and determines how to actuate the motor <b>76</b>.

0099In one arrangement, the microprocessor <b>118</b> is programmed to recognize, one, two, three, or more tugs separated by a predetermined amount of time, such as between a quarter second and one and a half seconds. However any other amount of time between tugs is here by contemplated such as ¼ second, ½ second, ¾ second, 1 second, 1&amp;¼ seconds, 1&amp;½ seconds, 1&amp;¾ seconds, 2 seconds, and the like. When microprocessor <b>118</b> detects a single tug, pursuant to instructions stored in the memory <b>120</b> microprocessor <b>118</b> instructs motor <b>76</b> to go to a first corresponding position, such as open. When microprocessor <b>118</b> detects two tugs, pursuant to instructions stored in memory <b>120</b>, the microprocessor <b>118</b> instructs motor <b>120</b> to go to a second corresponding position, such as closed. When microprocessor <b>118</b> detects three tugs, pursuant to instructions stored in memory <b>120</b> microprocessor <b>118</b> instructs motor <b>122</b> to go to a third corresponding position, such as half open. Any number of tugs and positions can be programmed.

0100Remote Control and Voice Control Operation:

0101One method of actuating the motor <b>76</b> is through using a wireless remote <b>196</b>. This method and system is more fully described in Applicant's related patent application entitled System and Method for Wireless Voice Actuation of Motorized Window Coverings Ser. No. 61/807,846 filed on Apr. 3, 2013 which is fully incorporated by reference herein. In that application, as is contemplated herein, a wireless remote <b>196</b> is actuated by the user, by pressing a button. When actuated, the wireless remote <b>196</b> transmits an electromagnetic signal over-the-air, which is received by the antenna <b>124</b> of the motor controller assembly <b>68</b>, Once antenna <b>124</b> receives the electromagnetic signal it is transmitted to receiver or transceiver <b>122</b> which converts the signal and transmits it to microprocessor <b>118</b>. Microprocessor <b>118</b> interprets the signal based on instructions stored in memory <b>120</b> and actuates the architectural covering <b>10</b> to the predetermined position. As is also presented in that application, is a voice actuation module <b>198</b>, which receives a user's voice command, converts it to an electromagnet signal which is received by architectural covering <b>10</b> in the manner described herein.

0102Internet Control and Operation:

0103One other method of actuating the motor <b>76</b> is through use of the internet and use of an electronic device. This method and system is more fully described in Applicant's related patent application entitled System and Method for Wireless Communication With and Control of Motorized Window Coverings Ser. No. 61/807,804 filed on Apr. 3, 2013 which is fully incorporated by reference herein. In that application, as is contemplated herein, motor <b>76</b> is actuated by a user having an internet enabled handheld device, such as a laptop, tablet or smartphone, which transmits a signal through the internet which is received at a gateway which then transmits an electromagnetic signal to the architectural coverings <b>10</b> as is described herein.

0104In Operation—Dual Motor Assembly:

0105In the arrangement wherein a motor housing <b>18</b> is connected to both ends of the combined rotatable drive element <b>12</b> there are two modes of operation. The first mode of operation includes where the center coupler <b>172</b> does not allow for independent rotation of rotatable drive elements <b>12</b>. In this arrangement, the two motor housings <b>12</b> combine to contribute to the rotation of the combined rotatable drive elements <b>12</b>. In this arrangement, a benefit is that the two motor housings <b>18</b> provide additional power and torque for the application. In this arrangement, a drawback is that the two motor housings <b>18</b> should be actuated simultaneously and be tuned to operate in cooperation with one another, otherwise one motor housing <b>18</b> will be working against the other.

0106In an alternative arrangement, center coupler <b>172</b> allows for independent rotation of rotatable drive elements <b>12</b> upon bearings <b>178</b>. In this arrangement, a single motor housing <b>18</b> only rotates a single rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. This eliminates coordinating opposing motor housings <b>18</b> as one will not affect the other. This also provides for independent actuation of one side of the architectural covering <b>10</b> while leaving the opposing side unaffected.

0107Coordination of Dual Motor Housings:

0108In the arrangement wherein two motor housings <b>18</b> are used, coordination of the two motor housings <b>18</b> may be desired. That is, in some applications it is desirable to turn on and turn off motors <b>76</b> at the same time. In other applications it is also important to rotate the motors <b>76</b> at the same speed. There are multiple ways to accomplish this coordination. In one arrangement, the two motor housings <b>18</b> are connected by an electrical conduit, such as a wire, which transmits control signals from one motor housing <b>18</b> to the other motor housing <b>18</b>. More specifically, the two motor controller assemblies <b>68</b> are connected to one another and communicate with one another. This ensures that when one motor housing <b>18</b> receives a control signal, such as through a tug or through a wireless or electromagnetic signal, that the control signal is relayed to the other motor housing <b>18</b>. This ensures when one motor housing <b>18</b> receives a control signal so does the other motor housing <b>18</b>.

0109In another arrangement, the two motor housings <b>18</b> are wirelessly connected to one another. In this arrangement, the motor controller assemblies <b>68</b> of each motor housing <b>18</b> have a transceiver <b>122</b>, instead of a receiver, which allows for sending as well as receiving control signals. In this arrangement, when a control signal is received by one motor controller assembly <b>68</b>, the transceiver <b>122</b> re-broadcasts or relays the control signal which is received by the transceiver <b>122</b> of the other motor controller assembly <b>68</b>. In this way, the two motor controller assemblies <b>68</b> communicate with one another to ensure the control signals have been received by both motor controller assemblies <b>68</b>.

0110Additional information is also transmitted from motor housing <b>18</b> to motor housing <b>18</b> in the ways described herein, such as wirelessly or through wired communication. This information can include as speed, location, state (such as awake or asleep mode) and the like so as to coordinate operation and actuation of the two motors <b>76</b>.

0111Conductive Brackets:

0112In one arrangement, the brackets <b>16</b> are formed of a conductive material such as steel, copper, aluminum, an alloy or the like. In this arrangement, the bracket <b>16</b> itself can be used as a pathway or conductor for carrying electricity from battery tube assembly <b>136</b>. In this way, when plug <b>148</b> connects to socket assembly <b>64</b> a conduit <b>50</b> or wire can be eliminated because this conduit <b>50</b> has been replaced by the bracket itself. This reduces cost of the system and eases the assembly by eliminating a part.

0113Components Recess:

0114In one arrangement, the motor controller assembly <b>68</b> is positioned within the components recess <b>66</b> of bracket <b>16</b>. In this arrangement, all the necessary components for controlling motor <b>76</b> are positioned within the bracket <b>16</b>. As one example, antenna <b>124</b>, receiver or transceiver <b>122</b>, memory <b>120</b> and microprocessor <b>118</b> are positioned within components recess <b>66</b> of bracket <b>16</b>. This arrangement allows for a smaller motor housing <b>18</b> which improves the aesthetic appearance of design.

0115Knurling:

0116In one arrangement, guide structure <b>14</b> can be formed into the exterior surface of the rotatable drive elements <b>12</b>, motor housings <b>18</b> and rotatable drive element extensions <b>182</b>. Knurling is a method used to cut or roll a pattern onto a material such as plastic or metal. This process is typically performed on a lathe, though in some cases a hand knurling tool will be used instead. A knurled object may have a threaded, diamond, crisscrossed, or straight line pattern imparted on it that adds both functionality and pleasing aesthetics. Knurling is often meant to provide a better gripping surface than offered by the bare material.

0117The primary method used to knurl objects is a lathe process that uses a very hard roller to press the desired shape into the work material. A roller with a reverse imprint of the desired knurl is held in a knuckle or jig and then pressed into the piece being worked on. The main configurations used for this type of knurling contain either one or two rollers. A straight knurl can be pressed by one roller, but any type of a diamond or crisscrossed design will require rollers with opposing patterns. The drawback of this process is that the rollers need to be matched to the unique outer diameter of each workpiece, so it is best for the mass production of many identical components.

0118In the arrangement shown, a crisscrossed or diamond pattern is knurled into the surface of rotatable drive elements <b>12</b>. Knurling is a fast, inexpensive, durable, accurate and efficient method of imparting the guide structure <b>14</b> into the surface of the rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. An example of the knurled surface imparted into the surface of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> which is a diamond shaped pattern, a crisscrossed pattern or a cross-threaded pattern. This pattern shows a high-density of threads which extend in a left-hand-rotation as well as a right-hand-rotation. This pattern also shows an extremely high-density of threads. Knurling is a desirable process because to impart this amount of threads in the surface of a rotatable drive element <b>12</b> by any other process would be extremely complicated and extremely time consuming.

0119Drive attachment element <b>194</b> engages the threaded and cross threaded pattern of the knurled surface. The interior surface <b>199</b>A of drive attachment element has a tooth <b>199</b>B that matingly engages the threads of the knurled pattern. As the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is rotated, the tooth <b>199</b>B of the drive element <b>12</b> rides along in the recesses or threads of the knurled surface which, depending on the direction of rotation, drives the drive attachment element <b>194</b> along the length of the rotatable drive element thereby opening and/or closing the architectural covering <b>10</b>. A similar arrangement is more fully described in Applicant's related patent Application Ser. No. 61/702,093 filed on Sep. 17, 2012 entitled Rotatable Drive Element For Moving A Window Covering, which is fully incorporated by reference herein, including any related applications; and Applicant's related patent Application Ser. No. 61/810,949 filed on Apr. 11, 2013 entitled Rotatable Drive Element For Moving A Window Covering Including A Flexible Guide Arm And A Pointed Tooth Arrangement which is also fully incorporated by reference herein, including any related applications.

0120In one arrangement, an aluminum material is desirable for use as the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> for the ease of which a knurling process can be performed. To improve the sliding of the driver attachment element <b>194</b> there over, a composite material is used for the interior surface <b>199</b>A of drive attachment element <b>194</b> and tooth <b>199</b>B. To further improve the sliding of the driver attachment element <b>194</b> over the knurled surface of the rotatable drive element, a coating is imparted over the knurled surface of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> such as a Teflon material, anodizing or any other low friction coating.

0121Tooth Arrangement:

0122To also improve the sliding of the drive attachment element <b>194</b> over the knurled surface of the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> the interior surface <b>199</b>A of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> has a lower density of teeth than the surface of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> has density of knurled threads. That is, as one example there is only one tooth <b>199</b>B for every two knurled threads in the surface of the rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. As another example, there is only one tooth <b>199</b>B for every three knurled threads in the surface of the rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. As another example, there is only one tooth <b>199</b>B for every four knurled threads in the surface of the rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. Other contemplated aspect ratios of teeth <b>199</b>B to knurled threads include 1 for 5, 1 for 6, 1 for 7, 1 for 8, 1 for 9, 1 for 10, 1 for 11, 1 for 12, 1 for 15, 1 for 20, 1 for 25, 1 for 50, 1 for 75, 1 for 100 and the like. The reduction in the number of teeth <b>199</b>B reduces the friction between the drive attachment element <b>194</b> and the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> which causes smoother operation and less consumption of energy.

0123Flexible Driver:

0124An improved drive attachment element <b>238</b> is presented. Drive attachment elements <b>238</b> are connected to and positioned around rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. Drive attachment element <b>238</b> is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, as is shown, drive attachment element <b>238</b> has a main body <b>240</b> that has a generally circular shape with an outside diameter surface <b>242</b> positioned in approximate parallel spaced relation to an inner diameter surface <b>244</b>. The inner diameter <b>244</b> of drive attachment element <b>238</b> is larger than the outer diameter of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, such that drive attachment element <b>238</b> can fit over and receive rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. Main body <b>240</b> of drive attachment elements <b>238</b> are positioned within a decorative ring <b>245</b>, which, in one arrangement, has a similar outward appearance to the idler attachment elements <b>230</b>. In one arrangement, the decorative ring <b>245</b> of drive attachment element <b>238</b> and idler attachment element <b>230</b> are practically identical, or identical with the only difference being the component(s) positioned within the decorative ring <b>245</b>. In one arrangement, the interior components, such as drive attachment elements <b>238</b>, rotate within a groove positioned within the inside diameter surface of decorative ring <b>245</b>.

0125In one arrangement, decorative ring <b>245</b> is made of a metallic material, whereas the interior components are made of a plastic, composite or other non-metallic material. In one arrangement an acetal-type of plastic is used, especially over a Teflon-coated rotatable drive element as a low coefficient of friction occurs there between.

0126The main body <b>240</b> of drive attachment element <b>238</b> has a top region <b>246</b> which is generally unitary in nature, whereas the bottom region <b>248</b> terminates in separate opposing arms <b>250</b>. Arms <b>250</b> are formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In the arrangement shown, arms <b>250</b> generally continue the arcuate curve of main body <b>240</b> of drive attachment element. Each arm <b>250</b> terminates in a hook portion <b>252</b>. In one arrangement, opposing arms <b>250</b> are separated from one another and are flexible such that main body <b>240</b> can be placed over rotatable drive element <b>12</b> between arms <b>250</b>. In one arrangement, a space is positioned between the ends of opposing arms <b>250</b>; whereas in an alternative arrangement, no such space is positioned between opposing arms <b>250</b> and opposing arms <b>250</b> are in frictional engagement with one another. As can also be seen, each opposing arm <b>250</b> is aligned with one side of main body <b>240</b>, that is, one arm <b>250</b> is aligned with the right side of main body <b>250</b>, whereas the other arm <b>250</b> is aligned with the left side of main body <b>240</b>. This staggering, or offset, allows the ends of hook portions <b>252</b> of opposing arms <b>250</b> to overlap, or extend past one another.

0127Hook portions <b>252</b> are formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, as is shown, hook portions <b>252</b> extend into the open interior of main body <b>240</b> with an arcuately curved exterior convex surface <b>254</b> connected at point or end <b>256</b> to an arcuately curved interior concave surface <b>258</b>. Points <b>256</b> do not extend into the open interior of main body <b>240</b> to the point where they engage or interfere with rotatable drive element <b>12</b> when positioned therein. As opposing arms <b>250</b> overlap one another, opposing hook portions <b>252</b> also overlap one another. In the arrangement shown, opposing points <b>256</b> are in approximate horizontal alignment with one another, and the overlapped interior concave surfaces <b>258</b> form a space or opening <b>260</b> therebetween. Opening <b>260</b> is sized and shaped to receive a connection member <b>234</b>, as is described herein, such as a ring, as is shown. The arcuately curved and concave surfaces <b>258</b> help to hold connection member <b>234</b> therein. In addition, when a connection member <b>234</b> is placed between the arcuately curved concave surfaces <b>258</b> of hook portions <b>252</b>, connection members <b>234</b> prevent arms <b>250</b> from separating from one another, thereby providing rigidity to the bottom region <b>248</b> and main body <b>240</b> as a whole. As an example, when weight is applied to connection member <b>234</b> (such as the weight of a heavy curtain <b>236</b>) arms <b>250</b> deflect or bend away from one another, thereby capturing connection member <b>234</b> between interior concave surfaces <b>258</b>, which defines the maximum amount that arms <b>250</b> will bend away from one another.

0128Guide arms <b>262</b> are connected to drive attachment elements <b>238</b>. Guide arms <b>262</b> are formed of any size, shape or design. In one arrangement, as is shown, guide arms <b>262</b> are connected to the interior surface of main body <b>240</b>, or the inside diameter surface <b>244</b>. In one arrangement, when viewed from the side, guide arms <b>262</b> extend the entire distance from a first lateral side <b>264</b> of drive attachment element <b>238</b> to a second lateral side <b>266</b> of drive attachment element <b>238</b>. Guide arms <b>262</b> connect at their upper edge to the inside diameter surface <b>244</b> at pivot point <b>268</b> and extend downwardly and inwardly at an angle therefrom to where guide arm <b>262</b> terminates at end <b>270</b>. Guide arms <b>262</b> have an interior surface <b>272</b> and an exterior surface <b>274</b>. In one arrangement, as is shown, interior surface <b>272</b> and exterior surface <b>274</b> extend in generally parallel spaced relation to one another. Also, as is shown, guide arms <b>262</b> arcuately curve in the same general manner as main body <b>240</b> and rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. That is the exterior surface <b>274</b> of guide arm <b>262</b> is generally convex in nature, and interior surface <b>272</b> of guide arm <b>262</b> is generally concave in nature. In one arrangement, this curvature is in the form of a partial portion of a circle. In one arrangement, the interior surface <b>272</b> of guide arm <b>262</b> arcuately curves in parallel spaced relation to the exterior surface of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, such that the interior surface <b>272</b> of guide arm <b>262</b> matchingly and matingly receives the exterior surface of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>.

0129Guide arm <b>262</b> elastically pivots at pivot point <b>268</b>. That is, opposing guide arms <b>262</b>, with one guide arm <b>262</b> positioned opposite one another on the interior surface <b>244</b> of drive attachment elements <b>238</b>, are initially biased to angle towards one another. Said another way, opposing guide arms <b>262</b> angle towards the open interior of drive attachment elements <b>238</b>. To promote this pivoting, or bias pivot point <b>268</b> is intentionally weakened or designed to flex. In one arrangement, as is shown, when viewed from the side, a recess <b>276</b> is positioned at the intersection of guide arm <b>262</b> and main body <b>240</b>, and/or adjacent pivot point <b>268</b>. In one arrangement, as is shown, this recess <b>276</b> is, when viewed from the side, a semi-circular recess. This thinning of the material at pivot point <b>268</b> encourages bending, without breaking with the semi-circular recess <b>276</b> providing a rounded surface to ensure guide arm <b>262</b> resists cleaving or breaking at pivot point <b>262</b>, thereby providing a longer useful life.

0130Guide arms <b>262</b> flex upon pivot point <b>268</b> between a maximum engagement position <b>278</b>, and a maximum deflection position <b>280</b>. A first bumper <b>282</b> is positioned in the inside diameter surface <b>244</b> of main body <b>240</b> and correspondingly positioned across from a second bumper <b>284</b> positioned in the exterior surface <b>274</b> of guide arm <b>262</b>. Bumpers <b>282</b>, <b>284</b> extend outwardly, or protrude, from their respective surfaces <b>244</b>, <b>274</b>. When bumpers <b>282</b>, <b>284</b> engage one another, guide arm <b>262</b> is at its maximum deflection position <b>278</b>.

0131At least one tooth <b>286</b>, if not a plurality of teeth, extends outwardly from the interior surface of guide arms <b>262</b>. Tooth <b>286</b>, is formed of any suitable size and shape and design. In the arrangement shown, when viewed from the side, tooth <b>286</b> has a generally elongated shape with sidewalls <b>288</b> positioned in parallel spaced relationship with one another. Sidewalls <b>288</b> terminate at tooth ends <b>290</b>. In this arrangement, tooth ends <b>290</b> are rounded or pointed so as to smoothly slide over any aberrations, burrs or abnormalities in rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. In this arrangement, teeth <b>286</b> are sized and shaped to matingly receive the grooves or protrusions in rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. That is, when helical guide structure <b>14</b> is a rounded groove, or semi-circular groove, teeth <b>286</b> are sized and shaped to be similarly rounded or semi-circular such that teeth <b>286</b> are received in the rounded groove of helical guide structure <b>14</b>. Teeth <b>286</b> are positioned in angular alignment such that they extend across the side-to-side <b>264</b>, <b>266</b> width of guide arms <b>262</b> at approximately the same angle α as the grooves in rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. As can be seen in this arrangement, opposing teeth <b>286</b> on opposing guide arms <b>262</b> are essentially inverses of one another, or mirror images of one another.

0132In this arrangement, drive attachment element <b>238</b> is positioned over rotatable drive element <b>12</b> by sliding drive attachment element <b>230</b> over an end of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. Alternatively, drive attachment element <b>238</b> is positioned over rotatable drive element <b>12</b> by deflecting opposing arms <b>250</b>, such that rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is received within the open interior within inside diameter surface <b>244</b>. Once in this position, guide arms <b>262</b> engage the exterior surface of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> and opposing teeth <b>286</b> align with and fit within the helical guide structure <b>14</b> in the exterior surface of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. When teeth <b>286</b> are received within helical guide structure <b>14</b>, the maximum engagement position <b>278</b> is achieved. In this position, due to gravitational forces in combination with the inward bias of guide arms <b>262</b>, teeth <b>286</b> are forcibly held within the grooves of helical guide structure <b>14</b>.

0133In this arrangement, as rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is rotated, drive attachment element <b>238</b> is driven along the lateral length of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> from end to end. Care is taken to ensure that drive attachment element <b>238</b> is oriented in the correct manner, such that when the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is rotated, the drive attachment element <b>238</b> travels in the desired linear direction.

0134When drive attachment element <b>238</b> is positioned over rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, arms <b>250</b> again overlap one another and connection member <b>234</b> is positioned in the space <b>260</b> between opposing hook portions <b>252</b>. This connection member <b>234</b> prevents arms <b>250</b> from separating from one another, prevents drive attachment element <b>238</b> from coming off of rotatable drive element <b>12</b> and further adds structural rigidity to the lower end of drive attachment element <b>238</b>. In addition, decorative ring <b>245</b> prevents arms <b>250</b> from separating from one another. That is, while arms <b>250</b> can be compressed to be inserted within the interior diameter of decorative ring <b>245</b>, once positioned therein, when the outside surface of arms <b>250</b> engage the interior surface of decorative ring <b>245</b>, the decorative ring <b>245</b> prevents any further extension of arms <b>250</b> away from one another.

0135As the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> rotates, teeth <b>286</b> ride within helical guide structure <b>14</b> thereby driving drive attachment elements <b>230</b> along the length of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. As the drive attachment element <b>230</b> encounters aberrations, burrs, size variations in the rotatable drive element <b>12</b> or any other abnormality in the surface of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, guide arms <b>262</b> deflect, bend or pivot at pivot point <b>268</b>, inwardly or outwardly. In this way, the inward bias, as well as the outward flexibility of guide arms <b>262</b> compensates for variations, burrs, etc. in the rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. This allows for more consistent operation of drive attachment elements <b>238</b> and prevents dislodgement of teeth <b>286</b> from helical guide structure <b>14</b>; as well as preventing rotation of drive attachment elements <b>238</b> on rotatable drive element <b>12</b> when an aberration, burr or other abnormality is encountered.

0136Pointed Tooth Driver:

0137In an alternative arrangement, instead of teeth <b>286</b> being smooth and rounded, teeth <b>286</b> are sharp, flat, square and pointed. More specifically, in this arrangement, teeth <b>286</b> have a flat upper surface <b>292</b> that arcuately curves in parallel spaced relation to the inside diameter surface <b>244</b>. When viewed from the side, opposing side panels <b>294</b> connect at their bottom edge to the inside diameter surface <b>244</b>. Opposing side panels <b>294</b> angle inwardly towards one another from their bottom edge to their top edge where they connect to flat upper surface <b>292</b>, at which point side panels <b>294</b> terminate. Like flat upper surface <b>292</b>, opposing side panels <b>294</b> similarly arcuately curve in relation to inside diameter surface <b>244</b>. Alternatively, side panels <b>294</b> are flat and square and do not arcuately curve in relation to inside diameter surface <b>244</b>. In this arrangement the pair of opposing end panels <b>296</b> form the tooth end <b>290</b>. As is shown, opposing end panels <b>296</b> connect at their rearward upper edge to the flat upper surface <b>292</b> and angle inwardly toward one another and downwardly toward inside diameter surface <b>244</b>. In this arrangement, opposing end panels <b>296</b> connect at their lower edge to inside diameter surface <b>244</b>, and connect at their inward edge to one another at seam line seam line <b>298</b> which terminates at point <b>300</b> which is the intersection of opposing side panels <b>294</b> and inside diameter surface <b>244</b>. In this arrangement, opposing panels and seam line <b>298</b> form a pointed wedge.

0138In one arrangement, teeth <b>286</b> are positioned within recessed groove <b>302</b>. Recessed groove <b>302</b> is recessed below the inner diameter surface <b>244</b> and is generally flat and positioned in parallel spaced relation to inside diameter surface <b>244</b> and outside diameter surface <b>242</b>. The edges <b>304</b> of recessed groove <b>302</b> are extend in parallel spaced relation to one another and generally perpendicular to the inside diameter surface <b>244</b> and outside diameter surface <b>242</b>. In one arrangement, recessed groove <b>302</b> and edges <b>304</b> thereof, extend in parallel spaced relation with the length of teeth <b>286</b>. In one arrangement, teeth <b>286</b> are approximately positioned in the center of groove <b>302</b>. In the arrangement shown, teeth <b>286</b> are positioned across main body <b>240</b> from one another, in one arrangement a tooth <b>286</b> is positioned approximately at the 12-o-clock position and a second tooth is positioned approximately at the 6-o-clock position, however any other position is hereby contemplated.

0139In this arrangement, teeth <b>286</b> protrude outwardly from recessed groove <b>302</b> such that the flat upper surface <b>292</b> of teeth <b>286</b> extend above the inside diameter surface <b>244</b> of recessed groove <b>302</b>. This spacing around teeth <b>286</b> allows provides an area or space between teeth and inside diameter surface <b>244</b> which allows for the passage of burrs <b>306</b> that have a tendency to form adjacent the upper edge of helical guide structure <b>204</b>. It is also hereby contemplated to use grooves <b>302</b> in association with the flexible guide arms <b>262</b> described above.

0140In the arrangement wherein one tooth <b>286</b> protrudes from the top center of main body <b>240</b>, and a second tooth protrudes from the bottom center of main body <b>240</b>, this arrangement prevents or resists vertical tilting of drive element <b>238</b>. In the arrangement wherein one tooth <b>286</b> protrudes from the left side of main body <b>240</b>, and a second tooth protrudes from the right side of main body <b>240</b>, this arrangement prevents lateral tilting of drive element <b>238</b>. As such, each arrangement is particularly well suited for specific applications.

0141Also, in the alternative arrangement, drive attachment element <b>238</b> includes has a main body <b>240</b> that has a generally circular shape with an outside diameter surface <b>242</b> positioned in approximate parallel spaced relation to an inside diameter surface <b>244</b>. The inner diameter <b>244</b> of drive attachment element <b>238</b> is larger than the outer diameter of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, such that drive attachment element <b>238</b> can fit over and receive rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. In this arrangement, main body <b>240</b> of drive attachment element <b>238</b> has a top region <b>246</b> which is generally unitary in nature, wherein the main body <b>240</b> forms a solid continuous circle.

0142In this arrangement, arms <b>250</b> are formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In the arrangement shown, arms <b>250</b> are connected to the outside diameter surface <b>242</b> of main body <b>240</b>. In the arrangement shown, opposing arms <b>250</b> connect to main body <b>240</b> at approximately the 2-o-clock to 3-o-clock region and the 9-o-clock to 10-o-clock region as one example. Arms <b>250</b> arcuately curve around main body <b>240</b> of drive attachment element from top region <b>246</b> to bottom region <b>248</b>. Each arm <b>250</b> terminates in a hook portion <b>252</b>.

0143In one arrangement, in a static position the ends of opposing arms <b>250</b> are separated from one another by a space <b>308</b>. As can also be seen, each opposing arm <b>250</b> is aligned with one side of main body <b>240</b>, that is, one arm <b>250</b> is aligned with the right side of main body <b>250</b>, whereas the other arm <b>250</b> is aligned with the left side of main body <b>240</b>, however such staggering is not required.

0144Hook portions <b>252</b> are formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, as is shown, hook portions <b>252</b> extend upwardly towards main body <b>240</b>. Hook portions <b>252</b> have a straight or arcuately curved convex exterior surface <b>254</b> connected at point or end <b>256</b>, which is flat, to a straight or arcuately curved interior concave surface <b>258</b>. Opposing arms <b>250</b> are flexible and pend at pivot point <b>310</b>. In the arrangement shown, a connection member <b>234</b> is held between opposing flat exterior surfaces <b>254</b> of hook portions <b>252</b>. When a connection member <b>234</b> is placed between the opposing exterior surfaces <b>254</b> of hook portions <b>252</b>, connection members <b>234</b> prevent arms <b>250</b> from bending towards one another which prevents main body <b>240</b> from coming out of decorative ring <b>245</b>.

0145In Operation:

0146A drive attachment element <b>238</b> is positioned over rotatable drive element <b>12</b> such that teeth <b>286</b> are received within the helical guide structure <b>14</b>. Drive attachment element <b>238</b> is followed by a plurality of idler attachment elements which are also positioned over rotatable drive element <b>12</b>.

0147In a two-way opening arrangement, a pair of opposing drive attachment elements <b>238</b> are positioned over rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, one at each end of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>, followed by a plurality of idler attachments <b>230</b>.

0148A connection member <b>234</b> is positioned over arms <b>250</b> and between opposing hook portions <b>252</b> such that connection member <b>234</b> is held there between. Next shade material or a drapery is connected to connection members <b>234</b> by any means known in the art.

0149In this arrangement, as rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is rotated, teeth <b>286</b> ride within helical guide structure <b>14</b>. As rotatable drive element <b>12</b> is rotated, drive attachment elements <b>238</b> are driven across the length of rotatable drive element <b>12</b>. When burrs <b>306</b>, or other manufacturing variances or deviations are encountered, the guide arms <b>262</b> flex and allow passage of the burrs <b>306</b> without interrupting operation.

0150When burrs <b>306</b>, or other manufacturing variances or deviations are encountered the sharp teeth <b>286</b> tend to slide past the burr <b>306</b> without dislodging teeth <b>286</b> from guide structure <b>204</b>. In addition, burrs <b>306</b> tend to pass within recessed groove <b>302</b>, between the narrowed flat upper surface <b>292</b> of teeth <b>286</b> and the inside diameter surface <b>244</b> without engaging or interrupting operation.

0151From the above discussion it will be appreciated that the motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use presented improves upon the state of the art.

0152Specifically, the motorized drapery apparatus, system and method of use shown and described herein is easy to use, efficient, simple, accurate, inexpensive, has a minimum number of parts, and has an intuitive design. Thus, one of ordinary skill in the art would easily recognize that all of the stated objectives have been accomplished.

0153It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other various modifications could be made to the device without parting from the spirit and scope of this invention. All such modifications and changes fall within the scope of the claims and are intended to be covered thereby.